PESHAWAR, Dec 24: Four gunmen opened fire on a Chinese engineer in the crowded Dargai bazaar on Wednesday, causing serious injuries. The engineer worked for the Malakand Three Power Project which has almost been completed. He was to return to his country on December 31st.

Police said the assailants overpowered the guard accompanying the engineer and his driver and fired shots at him.

AFP adds: A local police official said that the engineer who was working on a hydroelectric power project in the area, suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was in hospital in serious condition.

Police have launched a probe into the attack, he said, adding that no one had so far claimed responsibility.

Militants have carried out a series of attacks against Chinese workers and installations in the country over the past few years.